Public Statements

Halvorson Calls on China to End Unfair Trade Practices That Kill Illinois Jobs

Press Release

Speaking out for Illinois jobs and business, Halvorson calls for action

Fighting for Illinois businesses and working families, Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson (IL-11) testified today at a hearing before the U.S. International Trade Commission, calling for China to end unfair trade practices that have harmed businesses and killed Illinois jobs.

"As we work to put our economy back on track we need to make sure that jobs in Illinois stay right here, and with China engaging in unfair trade practices, that is becoming increasingly difficult," said Halvorson. "I have called on the U.S. International Trade Commission to take action that will encourage China to play by the same rules the rest as the rest of the world. I know that when our working families and businesses compete on a level playing field, we can out-manufacture anyone in the world. This is about a level playing field for our local businesses."

During her testimony, Halvorson cited Alabama Metal Industries Corporation's (AMICO) steel grating facility in Bourbonnais, which has seen profits decrease and dozens of jobs cut over the last four years as cheaply produced Chinese steel grating imports have increased by more than 500 percent.

Halvorson is also a co-sponsor of H.R.2378, the Currency Reform for Fair Trade Act which fights against unfair currency manipulation by China, which harms American businesses and jobs.